Optimizing root spatial distribution during the flower-boll stage can reduce yield losses from square stage drought in cotton.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Root spatial distribution, an important root function phenotype, is closely related to drought tolerance. Drought is known to hinder cotton development, but, the effects of drought at the square stage on the spatial distribution characteristics of roots at the flower-boll and boll opening stages remain unclear.

Methods

To address this gap, 30 different cotton cultivars were grown in the field. The control treatment received routine irrigation (1175 m³·hm^-2), and the drought treatment received reduced irrigation (822.5 m³·hm^-2). Multiple parameters, including root traits, above-ground traits, and yield, were assessed.

Results

At the flower-boll stage, drought conditions during the square stage significantly reduced

SUBMITTER: Guo C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12706958 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature